Large Pores

WHAT CAUSES LARGE PORES?

Large pores are openings in the skin that arise as a result of increased oil secretion. These unsightly depressions can occur as a result of resolving acne, extensive sun exposure or hormonal imbalances. Pores can occur focally on the skin or in a linear array over the face, back, chest and neck. Large pores present no health risk, and do not impair the body's ability to function normally. Still, for many people they become a frustrating problem. At ADAS, we often combine medical treatments with innovative laser or light treatment approaches to help our patient's skin look and feel better.

HOW ARE PORES REMOVED?

At our laser center, we use three lasers approaches and one light device to reduce pore appearance. Photodynamic Therapy is one novel approach that can be used to reduce pore size. This procedure combines a chemical called ALA (aminolevulinic acid) with either VBeam™ laser or Blu-U™ light to reduce pore size and depth. We also can use the Fractional "DOT" CO2™ laser or Fraxel™ re:store laser to further reduce unsightly pores and associated sun damage.

HOW LONG DOES THE ACTUAL TREATMENT TAKE? HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?

Treatment with the laser and light devices mentioned above takes anywhere from 5 minutes to 1 hour depending on the treatment that is carried out. Usually 2 to 7 treatments sessions are required to see a 50 to 95% improvement. These are spaced out every 4 weeks (on average).

WHAT IS THE PRE CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR PORE REMOVAL?

Typically, we ask our patients to discontinue the use of retinoic acid products and glycolic acid products for 3 to 4 days before your next treatment. It is also wise to stay out of intense sunlight (or tanning beds) beginning 1 week prior to your laser treatment. Sometimes an antiviral medication may be prescribed if you are prone to cold sore formation.

HOW MUCH DISCOMFORT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE TREATMENT?

There is mild to moderate discomfort with our large pore removal procedure. A topical or local anesthetic is all that is usually required. Topical anesthetics are applied for 30 to 60 minutes and covered with Saran Wrap™ to enhance the cream's effectiveness. Pain usually is described as a modest burning, or stinging. Cool compresses and medications such as Motrin™ or Advil™ can readily help to alleviate any discomfort.

HOW LONG DOES THE SKIN TAKE TO HEAL?

Pore removal is mildly traumatic to the skin. Bruising and minimal swelling is often noted post op. Depending on the location and treatment type, these processes can take up to 3 to 7 days to heal. Once the skin has fully healed, you can then undergo another treatment.

WHAT ABOUT POST OP CARE?

We recommend a post laser skin care system. We also sometimes prescribe a corticosteroid pack to help reduce the duration of swelling. Remember to stay out of intense sunlight the week after your pore removal treatment has been performed. Concealing makeup, e.g. Jane Iredale™, can be used to minimize the color changes of healing if the pores are in a noticeable location and/or if you experience bruising.

HOW LONG WILL THE BENEFITS FROM PORE REMOVAL LAST?

The benefits from the large pore removal procedure can last for a long time. Repeat treatments are sometimes required to further enhance your results but this is determined on a case by case basis. In our experience, patient satisfaction has been high for this procedure. Results, however, may vary from patient to patient.

HOW CAN I SCHEDULE A PORE REMOVAL CONSULTATION OR TREATMENT?

Feel free to contact our office at 904-285-SKIN (7546) or click here. We look forward to meeting you at your initial consultation visit. Thanks for allowing us to educate you about the benefits of our pore removal treatments. See you soon.